What the research actually shows
In 2011, researchers at University College London pooled 14 long-term studies that followed people’s stress and their weight or waist size over time (Wardle and colleagues, published in Obesity).
About 7 in 10 of the analyses found no statistically significant association. Pooled together, the association between stress and adiposity was positive but very small, and it was stronger in men than in women. The authors called stress a risk factor for weight gain whose effects are very small.
So if life has been hard and your weight has gone up, stress may be part of the picture, and you are not doing it wrong.
Is “cortisol belly” real?
“Cortisol belly” is a social media phrase, not a medical diagnosis. The shape of your stomach cannot tell you, or anyone else, what your cortisol is doing.
Cushing’s syndrome can result from the body making too much cortisol or from taking glucocorticoid medicines over a long time. Diagnosis requires medical evaluation and tests. If you are worried about it, talk to your doctor. Do not stop or change a medicine on your own.
Be wary of supplements, teas or plans that promise to “reset” or “lower” cortisol and slim your middle. None of that is shown by the research above.
How stress can show up in your days
Consider whether your sleep, meals or activity have changed during stressful times. Those everyday routines are where you have some control.
- Protect sleep first. The Physical Activity Guidelines note that regular activity helps sleep.
- Consider a regular meal routine that works for your day.
- Move a little most days. The same guidelines say regular activity reduces anxiety symptoms.
Where a team walk fits
The 3-Day Walk & Water Challenge is three days of short walks and water with a team of two to four. The challenge is not a treatment for a cortisol disorder. What it gives you is a reason to get outside, and a few people who notice when you do.
